Boston remembers Nelson Mandela

Joe Dwinell Thursday, December 05, 2013

Credit: Herald file photo

Nelson Mandela takes the stage at the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade June 23, 1990, with then-Gov. Michael Dukakis, far left, U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy, at left, and then-Mayor Raymond Flynn to the right.

Bostonians will never forget Nelson Mandela's visit to the city June 23-24, 1990, where he was hailed as "the statesman of our time."

He stopped at Madison Park High School and spoke to a quarter-million people -- it seemed like more -- at the Esplanade.

Here are the memories coming in today on the death of Mandela, 95:

Gov. Deval Patrick: “The world lost an ambassador of peace, reconciliation and brotherly love today. Nelson Mandela was a remarkable and inspiring example of resilience, persistence, determination and grace, in his time and for all time. Diane and I send our deepest condolences to the people of South Africa.”

Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino: “Nelson Mandela was truly a global statesman. Though I never had the honor of meeting him personally, I was always moved by his strength and bravery. He made tremendous sacrifices for the causes he believed in, bringing an end to apartheid and institutional racism in South Africa. I join the global community in offering my sincerest condolences to his family and the people of South Africa, as well as my sincerest gratitude.”

U.S. Rep. Joe Kennedy III: “Nelson Mandela brought the light of justice to a world struggling against the darkness of oppression and hate. Our globe lost a giant today. In his memory, may we carry on the message of peace, kindness and compassion that he made his life’s work.”

U.S. Rep. William Keating: “Nelson Mandela’s life will not only serve as an inspiration for countless years to come but will also be the model for a life of fortitude, principle, civic service, and courage to better the world. His work championing fundamental human rights and tireless pursuit of equality will rightly be the bar against which many will measure themselves. While it is with a heavy heart that we reflect on his legacy, the truest way to honor Nelson Mandela’s life and accomplishments is to live our own in the example that he has set.”